10 Cheap (or even FREE) Things to do in Fort Lauderdale this Summer

Summer is here and you can feel it! Whether you live in Fort Lauderdale year round or you are just visiting, there is plenty to do without breaking the bank! Here are 10 great ways to spend your time in the gorgeous South Florida Sunshine, that are ridiculously cheap or even FREE!

Every Summer the city of Fort Lauderdale puts on quite the show with Starlight Musicals in Holiday Park. Bring a blanket, chair, tent or just have a seat in the well manicured grass, and take in the sounds each week with local musicians ranging from R&B to Classic Rock. Concerts start at 7PM on Friday nights. Don’t miss out on the FREE family event. Details

Now this is a year round event, but is especially great when trying to save over the Summer months. Jazz Brunch is set up along the scenic New River, and has multiple stages set up with live jazz music. Pack your coolers and snacks, and set up anywhere between gorgeous Riverfront all the way to Esplanade Park. Local food vendors and businesses also will be set up for your convenience.Details

On August 2nd , September 6th, and October 4th, The Historic Bonnet House on Fort Lauderdale Beach will be offering tours of the estate at a discounted rate. Take this opportunity to view the amazing museum and gardens at the low rate of $10. Details

Hop on the Sun Trolley to get all over town. Beat downtown or beach parking with this inexpensive and safe way to get around! $1.00 one way or $3.00 for a day pass. Just wave to signal the driver just like a cab. Details

In the heart of the beautiful Sheraton Hotel located on the south end of Fort Lauderdale beach, is the historic Wreck Bar! With port holes throughout the bar and lounge with underground views of the pool, the mermaids of Lauderdale will pay you a visit on Friday and Saturday nights at 6:30pm. Details

The Design Center of The Americas is a high end furniture show room. DCOTA is set up like a giant mall, with furniture displays, show rooms, and store fronts. They offer open houses to the public on select dates over the summer. Although spending the day at DCOTA will inspire you to redesign your current home, it is a great way to see new and upcoming designers and to get some great ideas! Details

Spend the day swimming, canoeing, boating or picnicking at the gorgeous John U. Lloyd Beach State Park. The park has two boat ramps, a concession stand, and plenty of space to get some friends together on the beach. Don’t forget your snorkel as it is a great place to do some diving. Located on North Hollywood Beach, it is just a few minutes away from Fort Lauderdale. Details

Being Broward County’s first nature center, this “secret” is a great place to spend the day taking in some old Florida Natural History. They have a great boardwalk to see some gorgeous greenery and wildlife. Details

This tropical oasis is located on East Sunrise Blvd and A1A and is nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic ocean. Rent kayaks for the day, go on a nature walk, or fire up one of the grills at a pavilion , this is a great option for the whole family. Details

The last Saturday of every month, FAT Village (Flagler Arts and Technology) offers a free event. Local artists open their doors for locals and visitors to view galleries, music, and even fashion shows. This is a great way to see some of the local culture in downtown Fort Lauderdale. There is always a great variety of food trucks and vendors of many different flavors. Be sure to stop by C&I Studios for some art, photography and refreshments. Details

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